March 30, Humla – A few days ago, Ak Nepali from Chankheli Rural Municipality-2 suffered serious injuries after falling off a cliff. He was taken to Humla District Hospital for treatment. However, the hospital immediately referred him to another facility, stating treatment was not possible there. His relatives took him to Simikot Airport to fly to Surkhet, but he passed away at the airport.
Basna Shahi, 34, from Chankheli-4, experienced labor pains and was rushed to Humla Hospital by her family. However, the hospital referred her to the Provincial Hospital in Surkhet. Similarly, Asmita Budha (Lama), 25, from Simikot Rural Municipality-4, was also referred to the Provincial Hospital in Surkhet when brought to Humla District Hospital for delivery.
At the hospital premises, Belu Rokaya from Simikot-5 was present seeking treatment for her 5-year-old son. Yet, there were no doctors available. Concerned about her child’s condition, treatment was being provided solely by nurses.
Lalpuri Sunar from Dadaphyak-7 of Simikot Rural Municipality walked two hours on foot to reach Humla District Hospital after her daughter fell ill. Although her daughter’s health was examined, the hospital did not provide test reports on the same day.
These representative incidents at Humla District Hospital in the remote Karnali Himalayan region highlight the lack of essential medical treatment. Despite being the only district hospital, patients struggle to receive even basic care and must be prepared to be referred elsewhere. Doctors are not easily available, and there is a shortage of adequate medicines and equipment.
The 15-bed hospital reportedly never has specialist doctors as per sanctioned positions, leaving the community’s hope for care unfulfilled. According to Dr. Umakant Tiwari, Chief of the Public Health Service Office and hospital, many medical positions are authorized but vacant.
He stated that there are three specialist posts at the ninth level: one gynecologist, one general surgeon, and one orthopedic specialist. However, these positions are currently unfilled.
Further, there are four sanctioned posts for medical officers at the eighth level, including Dr. Tiwari himself, who has completed his MDGB studies. Of the other three officers, one is on study leave, one on maternity leave, and the third is currently not present in the hospital.
The hospital also has one medical officer serving as a volunteer from Nik Simon organization and two doctors working under scholarship contracts. Posts include one dental surgeon, three assistant health workers (AHEB), and four general nurses, but these positions are often unfilled and sometimes no doctors are available at all.
Dr. Tiwari acknowledged that the shortage of manpower is the root of the problem. “Specialist doctors are reluctant to come. I am the only one living in such a remote area,” he said. “Other colleagues come and go for various reasons, which disrupts service delivery.”
Nevertheless, the hospital claims to provide daily emergency, laboratory, X-ray, and video X-ray services, and has arrangements for maternity care within the district.
At just 26 years old, Manish Khanal has been elected as a Member of Parliament from Nawalpur Constituency No. 2. Khanal played an active role in the JENJI uprising on Bhadra 23 and 24, serving as a drafter of the 10-point agreement. He has plans to address issues in his constituency through policy and legal reforms for its prosperity. Khanal never imagined that his dream to become an MP at such a young age would come true; he always saw himself as a warrior of the streets. Accordingly, he was involved in various social movements, including the one on Bhadra 23 and 24, where he actively participated in documenting the protests. “I always thought someday I would contest elections, become an MP, or represent Nawalpur Constituency No. 2,” he says, “but I never expected it to happen so soon.”
Following the transformative impact of the JENJI uprising on Nepal’s political landscape, Khanal contested the election from Nawalpur Constituency No. 2, where he won by a significant margin. He secured 41,347 votes, while the Communist Party of Nepal (UML) candidate Til Bahadur Mahat Chhetri received 15,755 votes, and Nepali Congress candidate Om Bahadur Gharti came third with 14,713 votes. Born in an ordinary family, Khanal completed his School Leaving Certificate from a community school and later moved to Kathmandu. He graduated from Nepal Law Campus and is a qualified lawyer. His political journey began with the Bibeksheel Nepali campaign, and he has actively contributed to various social movements concerning medical education reform, justice for Nirmala Pant, the Lalita Niwas land scandal, and the Lokman Singh case.
At age 20, Khanal became a central committee member of the Bibeksheel Nepali Party. Later, he joined the National Independent Party and served as the chief of staff for then-MP Asim Shah. He also worked briefly in the Ministry of Youth and Sports’ policy and legal division. As an active participant in the JENJI uprising on Bhadra 23 and 24, Khanal was one of the drafters of the 10-point agreement reached between the government and the protestors. Having played a vital role in drafting the agreement, he felt the responsibility to raise youth voices from the streets to the legislative assembly. “There was a call for someone to institutionalize the spirit of the uprising. Should we look for an alternative or become the alternative ourselves? That is why I came forward thinking I could be a suitable young candidate for Nawalpur Constituency No. 2,” he explains.
His main goal was to convey the voice from the streets into the parliament. However, due to his young age, there were many doubts and suspicions during the electoral campaign. Many commented on his youth, and some even doubted his credibility. Prevailing notions that leaders must be “graying” or “physically imposing” made the early days difficult. Yet, through door-to-door visits, media engagement, and direct meetings, Khanal found that voters prioritized ideas, capability, and experience over age. His legal knowledge, experience in parliamentary secretariat, and role in the uprising provided him with a strong foundation.
Moreover, Nawalpur Constituency No. 2 encompasses a diverse geography. The northern region is hilly, while the southern area includes the flat Terai and Inner Madhesh plains. Khanal refers to his district as a “three-tier district.” The northern part hosts Magar and Gurung communities, where agricultural products like ginger and oranges have the potential to tap into good markets. There is also a long-standing demand to commence production at the Dhaubadi iron mine in Hupsekot Rural Municipality.
In the southern region, issues such as erosion of the Narayani River, human-wildlife conflicts, and administrative complications due to it being an intermediate region pose key challenges. Areas adjoining Chitwan National Park suffer from rhino and tiger attacks that destroy crops, with compensation processes being cumbersome and insufficient. Khanal recalls that even during the election, three people were attacked by rhinos. Being an intermediate region also brings challenges in service availability and administrative delays that frustrate locals. Unemployment, absentee populations, and the compulsion to seek foreign employment for minimum wages are common shared grievances of the voters.
According to Khanal, the youth’s expectations are clear. Most young people work abroad, but they wish to avoid migration if they can find minimum wage jobs domestically. They envision generating income by operating homestays along the Narayani River and developing Triveni Dham into a tourist hub connected to Devghat. They believe that if Chitwan prospers by showcasing rhinos, Nawalpur can also thrive similarly. “If Chitwan is prospering by promoting rhino tourism, why should we fear? We too can generate income by showing rhinos,” Khanal quotes the youth’s perspective and expresses his commitment to do what he can.
For all these initiatives, Khanal adopted the campaign slogan: “Policy Leads to Law and Law Leads to Prosperity.” He aims to link his legislative role directly with the district’s prosperity. His plans include resolving the issues of the intermediate region, constructing roads and infrastructure, and controlling river erosion through policy and legal measures. He has pledged to both watchdog and support the government’s 100-day action plan as well as the spirit of the 10-point agreement made with JENJI in parliament.
As one of the leaders of the JENJI movement, Khanal says he will carry youth sentiments in parliament. “Today’s youth do not seek long speeches but expect delivery. Their call is for the assigned work to be completed within the designated timeframe. The youth of the reels era demand short, crisp, yet effective results,” he notes. “My goal after winning and going to Kathmandu is to break the common complaint of voters about elected representatives disappearing from their districts.”
March 31, Dubai – A major attack occurred on a large Kuwaiti oil tanker docked at Dubai Port in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Following the incident, the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil rose by 3.4 percent in international markets.
According to Kuwait’s official news agency, Kuna, the giant tanker named “Al-Salmi,” anchored in the harbor, was directly targeted in the assault.
Kuwait Petroleum Corporation (KPC) strongly condemned the attack as “criminal” and warned of the potential risk of an oil spill in the sea.
The company reported that the tanker was fully loaded with crude oil at the time of the attack and sustained damage. Videos circulating show the vessel on fire; however, no human casualties have been reported thus far.
According to Dubai Media Office, maritime fire control teams are actively working to contain the blaze. “Dubai authorities responded immediately to the drone attack on the Kuwaiti tanker anchored in Anchorage ‘E’. Fire containment and situation management are currently ongoing following established procedures,” the statement read.
Additionally, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO), operated by the British military, confirmed the incident, noting that the vessel was attacked approximately 31 nautical miles (57 kilometers) northwest of Dubai. Initial reports do not confirm any environmental impact from the attack.
This attack marks the latest in a series of maritime assaults targeting commercial vessels in the Gulf region and the Strait of Hormuz shipping lane, following military actions against Iran by the United States and Israel beginning February 28.
The incident has triggered noticeable repercussions in the international oil market. Bloomberg reported that the price of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude oil increased by 3.4 percent, surpassing $106 per barrel. Notably, on Monday alone, WTI had already risen above $100 per barrel for the first time since 2022.
Image caption, Chinese tech company Yunji is testing its delivery robots in Hong Kong hotelsArticle Information
A delivery robot stops as a lift door opens in the lobby of a Hong Kong hotel, and a guest steps out. The robot waits before entering again.
This appears straightforward but is actually quite complex. In a busy hotel with an international network, the robot must accurately understand the building’s layout to navigate effectively. Yet the fast pace of the hotel never slows it down.
People frequently walk by, and the lift must arrive at the correct floor and find the appropriate room.
The company behind this robot, Yunji, is a technology firm based in mainland China, viewing Hong Kong as an opportunity for business expansion.
“We want to succeed with our product in Hong Kong and then aim to expand into international markets,” said Vice President Xi Yunpeng.
Fear of ‘Chinese Risk’
Hong Kong plays a crucial role for Chinese tech companies by providing a platform to raise capital, test products with foreign clients, and build credibility for international expansion.
This is vital as the US and European nations have become increasingly cautious towards Chinese firms. Critics express concerns about ‘Chinese risk,’ fearing government espionage and extensive Chinese dominance in technology sectors.
With restricted access from mainland China, tech companies find it difficult to tap into international markets for capital, customers, and trust. Thus, they seek to establish themselves first in Hong Kong.
Last year, the number of Chinese companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange rose by 153% from 30 to 76 in 2024, according to a report by PricewaterhouseCoopers.
Hong Kong’s ‘Invest Hong Kong’ initiative to promote investment in the Special Administrative Region reported an increase in the number of Chinese firms establishing or expanding there.
Image credit, Yunji
Image caption, According to Xi Yunpeng, the company aims to expand internationally from Hong Kong
Eurasia Group political advisor Xiang Lu states that Chinese tech companies prioritize Hong Kong for listing due to geopolitical challenges.
“Today, Hong Kong offers the best hope to attract global investors and establish itself as a relatively independent player beyond mainland China’s borders,” she said.
Wendy Chang of the Germany-based think tank Market Institute for China Studies describes Hong Kong as a strategic shield connecting Chinese companies to the external world.
China’s Priorities
Beijing is focusing on increasing technological self-reliance, with a strong emphasis on Hong Kong.
Reducing dependence on foreign hardware and software is now central to China’s economic policy, especially in artificial intelligence and semiconductors.
The 15th Five-Year Plan treats technology not only as an economic priority but also as a strategic one in view of tensions with the United States.
Image credit, AFP via Getty Images
Image caption, Some view Hong Kong as a useful “foundation” for mainland Chinese companies
Paul Triolo, a partner at global consulting firm DGA in Washington, says Hong Kong’s strategic importance has grown.
Alessia Garcia-Herrero, chief economist for Asia-Pacific at French investment bank Natixis, states that Hong Kong helps mainland Chinese companies meet international standards and builds trust with global investors and clients.
For Yunji, this means certifying that their robots can operate internationally according to global standards. Serving hotels, hospitals, and factories, the company was listed in Hong Kong in October 2023 to expand its capital base beyond the mainland.
Chinese AI software company MiningLamp Technology also began operations in Hong Kong that month. Founder Wu Minghui describes Hong Kong as a “data compliance transfer station,” where mainland firms test cross-border data flows and regulatory compliance before entering other markets.
Remaining Risks
Even if mainland companies succeed in Hong Kong, they may still face challenges abroad.
The US and European governments have tightened national security reviews on Chinese investments and technology to ensure data access and critical infrastructure protection. Countries like the US and UK have imposed restrictions on Chinese telecom suppliers.
Western nations express broad concerns regarding the governance and transparency of Chinese companies.
Meanwhile, Hong Kong is less attractive to international companies and investors than before. After pro-democracy protests in 2019, security laws have been strictly enforced.
Many activists, opposition leaders, and journalists have been arrested or imprisoned under security or other laws.
Officials in Beijing and Hong Kong say these measures were necessary to restore stability and order, but critics argue they have curtailed political freedoms.
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March 31, Kathmandu – The Security Committee of the Iranian Parliament has approved a plan to collect tolls from ships and oil tankers passing through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes. According to Iran’s official media outlet, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), this plan includes levying fees on all vessels transiting this strategic waterway, with a provision to impose a complete ban on American and Israeli ships.
The legislation passed by the parliamentary committee will require international vessels navigating through the Strait of Hormuz to pay transit fees. Iran states that this measure is intended to reinforce its sovereignty, cover security management expenses, and generate new sources of revenue. Currently, the Strait of Hormuz is recognized as an international maritime passage, granting all nations’ ships the right to free navigation.
Analysts suggest that Iran’s decision may conflict with international maritime law. The move is expected to face strong opposition from the United States and Gulf countries. Experts also warn that this could not only challenge the principle of freedom of navigation but might also introduce further volatility to global oil prices.
Iran claims it has the responsibility to ensure security in the Hormuz region and argues that charging fees in return is justified. This move is seen as an effort by Iran to legally establish its control and influence over the Strait of Hormuz. Local media report that the proposal aims to formally secure Iran’s sovereignty, control, and monitoring capabilities over the strait, while creating a new revenue stream. Iranian parliamentarian Mohammad Reza is quoted saying that charging fees on vessels passing through Hormuz is as natural as it is on other international routes.
On Monday, Prime Minister Balendra Shah initiated dialogue with members of parliament from Koshi and Karnali provinces, addressing local issues and national matters. He expressed a commitment to prioritize development projects based on budgetary allocations and to distribute the budget equitably across all areas. Although MPs raised questions regarding the arrest of CPN party chairman KP Sharma Oli, Prime Minister Balendra remained silent on the topic.
Kathmandu, 30 March – Prime Minister Balendra Shah has begun discussions with members of parliament. According to the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, MPs were consulted to gather suggestions about problems in their constituencies, potential solutions, and work at the national level. On Monday, opinions were collected from MPs representing Koshi and Karnali provinces, with plans to hold province-level consultations with other MPs.
During the meeting at the Prime Minister’s Office, MPs from both provinces brought up local issues, development projects, budgeting, and social security. According to House of Representatives member Yagnamani Nyaupane, the collective provincial problems as well as constituency-specific concerns were conveyed to the Prime Minister. He stated, “The Prime Minister inquired about which issues require immediate resolution and the possible solutions.”
Prime Minister Balendra affirmed his commitment to give priority to development initiatives in accordance with the budget and to ensure equal budget distribution across all regions. However, he remained silent on certain topics raised by the MPs. Notably, MPs from the CPN UML party questioned him about the arrest of party chairman KP Sharma Oli.
Representatives of trade unions have issued a warning that the government’s decision to dissolve partisan trade unions within public administration is unacceptable to them.
In conversation with the BBC, union representatives revealed that they are consulting on possible actions should the government proceed with dissolving trade unions.
Following the government’s announcement to dissolve the trade unions, concerns are rising regarding the measures to be taken and the likely responses from unions.
A constitutional expert has noted that while the government’s move may be positive, implementing this decision will be challenging.
Various national trade union networks representing civil servants include the Nepal Civil Servants Union, Nepal Civil Servants Organization, Nepal National Civil Servants Organization, Unified Government Employees Organization, Independent Public Servants Employees Organization, and Madheshi Civil Servants Forum, all affiliated with political parties.
What is the government’s decision?
Image source: RSS
Caption: Experts say the government will not find it easy to implement its decision.
In a cabinet meeting held on 26 March, the government approved a list of 100 administrative reform agenda items, including topics related to trade unions.
Point number 12 states: “To free public administration from political interference completely and make it impartial, neutral, and accountable to the citizens.”
“To achieve this, civil servants including administrative staff, teachers, professors, and all public servants will be required to perform their duties without any direct or indirect affiliation with any political party, group, or interest center, and violations will be dealt with strictly as per existing laws,” the agenda mentions.
“Furthermore, to end undesirable political interference and informal pressure by dissolving trade unions based on political parties within public administration, the government will make the decision-making process and service delivery more effective. To this end, necessary legal provisions, particularly the Federal Civil Service Bill, will be prepared within 45 days.”
‘Unacceptable to Us’
Representatives of civil service trade unions have told the BBC that under no circumstances would they accept the dissolution of their organizations.
“If reforms are needed, we are willing to move forward with changes, but we cannot accept the dissolution of civil service trade unions under any condition,” said Uttam Kutuwal, president of the Nepal Civil Servants Union, in an interview with BBC News Nepali.
He added that their actions will depend on how the government proceeds in implementing this decision.
“There remain options for protests and legal remedies. However, let’s see how the government moves forward,” Kutuwal remarked.
Bhavani Nyaupane Dahal, president of the Nepal Civil Servants Organization, expressed confidence that the government would not go against the continuation of employee trade unions, which operate in democratic countries worldwide.
“We are confident the government will not dissolve employee trade unions,” she told BBC News Nepali.
Image source: Reuters
Caption: The government led by the National Independent Party, which gained nearly two-thirds majority, is expected to bring significant upheaval.
Dahal warned that if the government proceeds with dissolving the unions while practicing under existing laws, such action will not be accepted.
“This is unacceptable. If the government proceeds unilaterally, we are consulting to decide what to do,” said Dahal.
“Before dissolution, the government must amend the existing laws. There will certainly be discussion and consultation.”
Kutuwal asserted that all organizations share a common stance against dissolution.
“We all agree. Within a few days, we will announce a joint position,” he added, stating they also have support from various international trade unions.
“We have fought hard to obtain this right. I have no belief a democratic government would strip it away,” he said further.
Trade unions active in public administration have often been accused of unnecessary interference in transfer processes.
However, union leaders deny these allegations. “Firstly, we are civil servants, not affiliated with any party. Secondly, claims of interference in transfers are falsely spread,” Kutuwal said.
Government’s Position on the Process
The government has announced it is preparing the Federal Civil Service Bill within 45 days, which will address this issue, according to officials.
“The Civil Service Act already contains provisions about national trade unions, but due to the prevalence of partisan trade unions, we are seeking improvements,” said Nita Pokharel Aryal, spokesperson for the Ministry of Federal Affairs and General Administration, in an interview with the BBC.
Officials have also indicated that work on drafting the necessary legal framework has already begun.
“We are drafting the Civil Service Act. This issue could be included, and discussions with stakeholders will take place,” the spokesperson added.
Regarding trade unions in private enterprises, the government has stated it will not interfere since they continue their practices in various forms.
What the Constitutional Expert Says
Constitutional expert Purnman Shakya explains that current laws lack clarity on whether partisan trade unions are allowed.
“The issue will ultimately be resolved through the courts. The law does not explicitly state whether trade unions can be formed on a partisan basis or not,” he said.
“While the government may state the intention to close partisan trade unions, it cannot revoke the fundamental rights of trade unions,” Shakya added.
Nepal’s Labor Act of 2017 has provisions related to the rights of trade unions.
“According to this act and others, every worker has the right to form, operate, or be part of a trade union and engage in related activities,” the act states.
Shakya pointed out that even if partisan trade unions are banned, in practice, individuals associated with political parties are often active, making the issue difficult to resolve.
“While employee rights are invoked, the practice often does not reflect that,” he commented.
“Trade unions working under the direction of political parties have introduced significant distortions,” Shakya said.
“Due to the partisan nature and political agendas of trade unions, the government considers it important to regulate civil service conduct.”
However, he believes implementing the government’s decision won’t be straightforward. “First, this issue will reach the courts. Second, even if trade unions are declared non-partisan, partisan panels are likely to emerge during elections within these unions,” he explained.
Despite the absence of trade unions in industrial sectors, Shakya suggests legal restrictions should be imposed on government employees.
“The tendency of governmental employees to operate along partisan lines must end, as it affects good governance,” Shakya concluded.
He also recalled that previous governments were unsuccessful in attempts to ban trade unions from the civil service sector.
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The Nepal Rastra Bank announced today an increase in the value of the US dollar, while the exchange rates of the Euro, UK Pound Sterling, Swiss Franc, and Australian Dollar declined. Today, the US dollar’s buying rate is set at NPR 151.44 and the selling rate at NPR 152.04. The central bank has stated that exchange rates may be adjusted as necessary and that up-to-date rates are available on its website.
According to today’s exchange rates, although the US dollar appreciated, the Euro, UK Pound Sterling, Swiss Franc, and Australian Dollar saw decreases. The Euro’s buying rate today is NPR 174.04 and the selling rate NPR 174.73, compared to yesterday’s buying rate of NPR 174.27 and selling rate of NPR 174.96.
Today’s buying rate for the UK Pound Sterling is NPR 200.52 with a selling rate of NPR 201.32, down from yesterday’s buying rate of NPR 200.76 and selling rate of NPR 201.56. The Swiss Franc’s buying rate stands at NPR 189.48 and selling rate at NPR 190.23 today.
The Australian Dollar also declined today, with a buying rate of NPR 103.87 and a selling rate of NPR 104.28. Yesterday, it traded at a buying rate of NPR 104.06 and selling rate of NPR 104.48. The Indian Rupee’s buying and selling rates are NPR 160.00 and NPR 160.15, respectively. The Nepal Rastra Bank has emphasized that it can adjust exchange rates at any time as necessary.
The government of Lumbini Province has handed over the Provincial Data Management Information System to Chief Minister Chetan Narayan Acharya. Chief Minister Acharya stated that this system will play a crucial role in policy-making and decision processes based on data. The system includes 1,196 data variables, 34 sectoral developments, and 164 indicators, and will be accessible to 109 local governments within the province.
March 30, Butwal – The Provincial Government of Lumbini officially received the Provincial Data Management Information System. The system was handed over to Chief Minister Chetan Narayan Acharya by the Provincial Planning Commission. During a ceremony held on Monday, Chief Minister Acharya inaugurated the information system, emphasizing its vital role in enhancing data-driven policy formulation and decision-making.
Chief Minister Acharya highlighted the necessity of providing detailed information about the achievements of all three tiers of government to both the government and citizens. He also noted that the provincial government is pursuing various initiatives to increase transparency. Additionally, he assigned the Provincial Information Technology Institute the responsibility for the system’s regular updates and operations. Dr. Dilliraj Aryal, Vice Chairperson of the Provincial Planning Commission, shared that the system was developed with a focus on promoting good governance, delivering effective services, and ensuring accountability.
The breakaway faction of the Nepali Congress, distinct from the party’s founding group, has intensified internal disputes by launching parallel activities. From the day former Home Minister Ramesh Lalekar was arrested, this faction has begun operating in an official party style. Acting Chairperson Purna Bahadur Khadka has called a meeting of the central working committee elected by the 14th General Convention. Kathmandu, March 30.
The rival group within the Nepali Congress has resumed parallel activities, escalating internal tensions that had already surfaced ahead of elections. Following the arrest of former Home Minister Lalekar, faction leader Purna Bahadur Khadka, speaking as acting chairperson, issued a statement, bringing the conflict back into the limelight. The arrest has exposed divergent perspectives between the founding and the breakaway factions on the issue.
Since Lalekar’s arrest, this breakaway group has conducted party activities claiming official status. His arrest gave rise to two distinct Congress factions within the political landscape. After the Election Commission granted recognition to the leadership selected at the special general assembly, Khadka released a statement as acting chairperson using the party’s letterhead. Conversely, the official Congress leadership issued a statement without mentioning Lalekar’s name, criticizing the government’s recent actions as “selective.” However, the party clarified that no protest or agitation would be organized against this move.
The government has urged strict adherence to the maximum workplace temperature standards established in 2082 BS. The Ministry of Labour had approved these standards on 30th Poush 2082 BS, categorizing work intensity into four groups—light, moderate, hard, and very hard—with specific temperature limits set for each.
16 Chaitra, Kathmandu. In line with the 2082 BS standard, the government has requested rigorous implementation of maximum permissible temperature levels at workplaces. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Labour, Employment and Social Security, the Department of Labour and Occupational Safety strictly emphasized compliance with the standards in a letter issued on 15 Chaitra. The Ministry had formally approved these occupational temperature limits on 30th Poush 2082 BS.
To ensure workplaces are dignified and safe from an occupational health and safety perspective, the Department has called upon labour and employment offices, employers, workers, and stakeholders to effectively enforce the standards. Department spokesperson Maninath Gopal stated that failure to comply with the approved standards will result in legal action according to existing laws. The standards divide work into four categories: light, moderate, hard, and very hard.
According to the standard, the maximum wet-bulb globe temperature (WBGT) should be 32.2 degrees Celsius for light work, 30.6 degrees for moderate work, 28.9 degrees for hard work, and 26.9 degrees Celsius for very hard work. Light work includes tasks such as sitting or standing to control machines and performing simple hand operations like cutting with hand tools or handling light materials. Moderate work involves continuous hand and arm activity, including pushing or pulling light objects, rearranging chairs, and moving items back and forth.
Hard work consists of physically demanding tasks that affect muscles, such as lifting, digging, carrying, or pushing heavy objects, and walking at a fast pace. Very hard work includes extremely strenuous activities performed at high to maximum speeds. The standards also specify that air velocity at 1.5 meters above ground should exceed 1.5 meters per second. Furthermore, the wet bulb temperature must always be lower than the dry bulb temperature but equal at 100% relative humidity.
If work must be performed outside the prescribed temperature ranges, appropriate safety control measures must be implemented, such as the use of personal protective equipment and rotation of work shifts, as stipulated within the standards.
March 29, Kathmandu – Amara Rai, a fifth-generation Thai-born individual, has been elected as the chairperson of the Association of Nepali Origin (ANO) Thailand Committee, an organization representing Nepali-origin citizens worldwide. The event took place on Sunday, March 29, in Bangkok, with the participation of Nepalese who were born in Thailand and those who have resided in Thailand and Burma for generations.
At the program, Nepal’s Ambassador to Thailand, Dhan Bahadur Oli, expressed his confidence that ANO’s efforts to preserve and transmit Nepali art, culture, language, and traditions among people of Nepali origin will bring positive results. He also recommended cooperating with local Nepali organizations to advance work in promoting the Nepali language and cultural heritage.
ANO General Secretary Chudamani Bhattarai announced that, following ANO’s request, the Nepalese government has arranged for Nepali-origin individuals arriving in Nepal to no longer have to wait in foreigner lines at the airport. Professor Dr. Mohan Dangi from California State University appreciated ANO’s agenda for expanding the sense of Nepali identity.
Dr. Khagendra Dhakal, Chairperson of Nepal Policy Institute and a professor based in Bangkok, expressed happiness that, unlike the Non-Resident Nepali Association which includes only up to three generations of Nepali, ANO serves as an organization inclusive of Nepalis beyond that lineage. The event also included the presence of ANO Board of Trustees member Vatsana Rai and Central Executive Committee member Raj Karmacharya. Under Amara Rai’s leadership, the ANO Thailand National Committee includes Milan Ghimire, Naresh Pandey, Sonia Rai, Amy Rai, Basanti Pradhan, Deepa Paudel, Asmita Nyaupane, Suman Karki, and Vicky Sinchuri.
Hollywood actress Sophie Turner sustained a minor injury during the filming of the Tomb Raider series, leading to a two-week suspension of production. The production team released a statement regarding Turner’s health, confirming that filming will remain halted until she fully recovers. The Tomb Raider series has been filming in the UK since early 2026, with Turner playing the lead role of Lara Croft.
Sophie Turner, famous for her role as Sansa Stark in Game of Thrones, was injured during the shoot of the internationally acclaimed Tomb Raider film series. Although the injury is not serious, the production has paused filming to allow her adequate rest. News of her injury quickly raised concerns among fans, prompting the producers to issue an update on her condition.
According to the production team, Turner’s injury is minor, but as a precaution, all filming and production work have been temporarily suspended until she has fully recovered. Filming is expected to resume soon. The shutdown of the Tomb Raider series production is anticipated to last about two weeks, during which the entire crew will continue to receive their salaries.
The series began filming at the start of 2026, and on January 15, the first look at Turner as Lara Croft was unveiled, receiving positive responses. The production is primarily taking place in the United Kingdom. This series is based on the globally popular Tomb Raider video game franchise, which follows the adventurous archaeological exploits of Lara Croft.
Since the first game’s release in 1996, the character has gained immense popularity. Several films based on the franchise have already been produced. Notably, Angelina Jolie portrayed Lara Croft in the 2001 movie “Lara Croft: Tomb Raider.” Now, Sophie Turner is set to take on the role of the new Lara Croft. Turner rose to fame as Sansa Stark in HBO’s Game of Thrones, a role she began playing at the age of 13. She has also appeared in films such as X-Men and Dark Phoenix.
India’s Central Electricity Authority has approved 24-hour electricity export of 600 MW to Nepal from April 1 to 15.
From April 16 to 30, India will limit electricity export to Nepal between 2 AM and 6 PM daily.
Nepal imports electricity annually from India during winter to meet domestic demand and will continue receiving 24-hour supply until April.
April 16, Kathmandu – India’s Central Electricity Authority has extended its permission to export electricity to Nepal for an additional 15 days, allowing 24-hour supply. Earlier, the authorization for 24-hour export of 600 megawatts was valid until March 31; this has now been extended from April 1 to 15.
Following this period, from April 16 to 30, electricity export will be modified whereby India will supply power to Nepal only from 2 AM to 6 PM, with no export between 6 PM and 2 AM. Subsequently, from July 1 to August 31, 24-hour export of 600 megawatts will resume.
From May 1 to June 30, power supply will be limited to 16 hours daily, specifically from 4 AM to 8 PM, with a suspension from 8 PM until 4 AM.
The Central Electricity Authority under India’s Ministry of Power has granted Nepal Electricity Authority permission to import up to 600 megawatts through the 400 kV Muzaffarpur-Dhalkebar transmission line via the Indian Power Exchange.
Supply arrangements after April will be reviewed again in March. Accordingly, a revised schedule partially reducing supply hours has been published.
Due to reduced water flow in rivers and streams during winter leading to decreased hydroelectricity generation, Nepal habitually imports electricity from India annually to meet domestic demand.
According to Hitendra Dev Shakya, Executive Director of Nepal Electricity Authority, the available power will ensure 24-hour electricity supply until April, and the 16-hour export from May onwards will be sufficient to meet Nepal’s demand.
March 30, Kathmandu — MP Ganesh Karki of the Rastriya Swatantra Party has proposed the implementation of a ‘pilot project’ to resolve problems related to land and squatters. Karki put forward this suggestion during discussions with the Prime Minister involving directly elected MPs from Koshi Province.
Karki stated, “As issues concerning land and squatters are prevalent nationwide, the situation in Morang-3 is particularly complex and unique. Therefore, let us establish Morang-3 as a ‘pilot project’ area to address land and squatter problems, and use the experience gained there to expand solutions to other regions.”
